Lyneham Infants School Offers Family Support
2nd February 2005 08:00hrs GMT
Lyneham Infants School head teacher Mrs Cathy Stanford has sent a poignant letter to parents and carers of children in the school to express their deepest condolences and pay tribute to a husband of one of the staff who was a member of the crew member on the Hercules Mission.

Cathy writes: At this extremely difficult time for the Lyneham community our thoughts are with the families of those affected by the recent tragedy in Iraq.

We regret to have to let you know that Flt Lt. David Stead, who was one of the crew on the Hercules which came down on Sunday, is the husband of Mrs Michelle Stead, who teaches at the Infants school, and who is currently on maternity leave.

He will be greatly missed by Michelle and their two daughters. We think of them especially.

As a mark of respect we intend to open a book of condolences in the Infants School foyer for children and parents of both schools to pay their respects. Both Schools will do everything we can to provide a caring enviroment which will offer support to the whole community in whatever way necessary. The single mobile between the two schools is available for you and your friends to use as a drop-in centre and we can provide a friendly face or a sturdy shoulder if anyone needs it!

We have stocked up on biscuits and tissues. We are sure we can all continue to work together to support each other.